Implications: Production surged 1.1% in November, rising the most in two years and fully rebounding from October's Sandy-related drop. Putting October and November together, production is up at a 2.5% annual rate in the past two months, the same growth rate as in the past year. Manufacturing boomed in November, growing 1.2%. The gain was led by auto production which increased 4.6%, the largest monthly gain since January. Expect continued gains over the next few months as consumers replace vehicles ruined by the storm. Manufacturing outside the auto sector – what we like to follow to reduce "statistical noise" – rose 0.9%, but is up only 1.6% from last year. This is consistent with a plow horse economy. Capacity utilization rose to 78.4% in November, the highest level since March, and still remains higher than the 20-year average of 77.7%. This means companies have an incentive to build out plant and equipment. Meanwhile, corporate profits and cash on the balance sheet show they have the ability to make these investments. However, if policymakers fail to resolve the "fiscal cliff" well into 2013, the risk of a mild recession would go up substantially. Our best guess is that some agreement will be made by very early in January, either a "bare-bones" agreement like the bill the Senate passed last July or a broader one. The Senate bill includes a one-year extension of income tax cuts for earnings below $250,000 per year, a capital gains and dividend tax rate of 20% (23.8% including the extra tax in the Obamacare bill on high-income tax payers), and a "patch" for the Alternative Minimum Tax for 2012. However, with so many issues – like the sequester, estate tax, and debt limit – left unaddressed, the two sides would be have to start bargaining again in January.

These posts were prepared by First Trust Advisors L. P., and reflect the current opinion of the authors. They are based upon sources and data believed to be accurate and reliable. Opinions and forward looking statements expressed are subject to change without notice. This information does not constitute a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security.